Honda Accord
Fifth Generation (1994 - 1997)
In 1994, the fifth generation Accord was released based on the "CD" chassis. With styling cues again borrowed from the Honda Prelude as in 1986,
the Accord gained overall size and was now classified as a "mid-size" automobile. It was also a break from the previous generation's boxy, rectangular
shape. The Accord was named Motor Trend Import Car of the Year in 1994. Trim lines return to DX, LX and EX while Canada retained the EX-R. The DX and
LX received a slightly more powerful 2.2 liter 130 hp engine while the 145 hp VTEC was standard on EX models. The 4-speed automatic transmission
remained an $800 option on all trims but now included a "Grade-Logic" shift program. The wagon is also included in the redesign for 1994 in LX and EX
trims. A more streamlined rear facia and lights give the 1994 Accord a sportier look. All Accord models received a more ergonomic interior with standard
safety features such as dual airbags and reinforced side-impact beams. The EX retains ABS as a standard feature. (now an option for the LX) 7-spoke, 15"
alloy wheels, 4-wheel disc brakes, and a rear stabilizer bar add to the performance of the EX. Leather seating is now offered on the EX as a factory
option. The 5-speed transmission remains essentially unchanged and the automatic gains smoother shifts and grade-logic. Dealer accessories include: Fog
lights, gold-finish kit, gold finish grille, cornering lamps, single-disc CD player, 6-disc CD changer, security system, trunk wing spoiler, car cover,
full nose mask, half-nose mask, and sunroof visor.
In Australia, the fifth generation Accord proved an instant success. It set a new sales record in 1994, with 6,446 sales, or a 1% share of the Australian
new vehicle market. This figure would remain unsurpassed until 2004. This generation was also the first where Honda produced the Accord in its Swindon
plant in the UK for European markets. The British car company Rover (car) had a model based on this Accord, the Rover 600. This European Accord was based
on the JDM Honda Ascot Innova, which in turn was based on the fourth-generation Accord. Europe is a market where Honda did not conquer, as Japanese cars
then were deemed plain and characterless. This marketing strategy sowed the seeds for future Accords, as Honda tried to accommodate customer requirements
of different markets.
In 1995, the Accord debuted a V6 engine, the 2.7 L C27 from the Acura Legend, in the U.S. market to compete with other V6-powered mid-size cars such as t
he Ford Taurus, Mazda 626, and Toyota Camry. The V6 was offered in the LX and EX versions of the sedan. Both versions of the V6 received dual exhaust,
a 4-speed automatic transmission, 15" wheels and a slightly updated front grille. The Accord saw very little other changes in 1995 with the exception of a
few different exterior/interior color combinations. Some versions sold in New Zealand had a 2.4-litre 4-cylinder while the 2.7 V6 was offered in EX trim
only.
In 1996, the Accord underwent the usual mid-generation facelift. More rounded bumpers, a slightly modified front facia with new signal lights and rear
taillights give the Accord a softer look. All Hondas now complied with the Federal Government's requirement of OBD II engine diagnostics though all
three engine choices remained the same. In order to increase the Accord's competitiveness against its rivals in different international markets, Honda
CEO Nobuhiko Kawamoto decided on one basic platform for the sixth-generation Accord, but with different bodies and proportions for local markets.
In 1997, Honda releases the "Special Edition" version of the Accord (not to be confused with the SE). It was offered in two colors: Heather Mist Metallic
and Dark Currant Pearl. The Special Edition received a factory installed security system with keyless entry, single-disc CD player, body colored side molding,
distinctive alloy wheels and a sunroof. It was only offered in an automatic transmission only and was fitted with the same engine as the LX.
More Accord Information
- First Generation (1976 - 1981)
- Second Generation (1982 - 1985)
- Third Generation (1986 - 1989)
- Fourth Generation (1990-1993)
- Fifth Generation (1994 - 1997)
- Sixth Generation (1998 - 2002)
- Seventh Generation (2003 - 2007)